One of the most meaningful reasons older adults choose to join a personal care community such as Barclay Friends is connection. As individuals grow older, opportunities for social interaction can become limited, especially when driving or participating in favorite pastimes becomes difficult. Without regular companionship, feelings of isolation may increase. That’s where meaningful relationships — both human and animal — can make a profound difference.
This story marks the first in a new series called Barks at Barclay Friends, highlighting the enriching role of visiting animals in community life. And there’s no better way to begin than with Bella.
Meet Bella
What Bella may lack in size, she more than makes up for in heart. This spirited terrier and dachshund mix has been a beloved visitor at Barclay Friends for the past five years. Alongside her human companion, full-time horticultural therapist Cheryl Bjornson, Bella has brought warmth, quiet joy, and simple companionship to residents throughout the community.
“She is their light,” Cheryl shares. “She makes them smile. Even if a resident isn’t able to pet her, just seeing her brightens their day.”
Learn more about horticultural therapy at Barclay Friends.
A Comforting Presence in Daily Life
For many residents, Bella offers a quiet, calming presence. She can often be found trailing gently behind Cheryl as she guides residents through flower arranging and other meaningful programs. Some pause to hold Bella, sharing a peaceful moment together. And Bella, ever attuned to kindness, seems to have a special sense for which team members offer the best belly rubs — often stretching out in front of them, inviting a scratch and a shared smile.
These simple, familiar interactions create moments of ease, where conversation flows naturally and memories of beloved pets often resurface.
The Lasting Benefits of Animal Companionship
The presence of animals offers meaningful benefits for older adults, particularly in residential communities. Studies have shown that interaction with animals can lower blood pressure, reduce stress, and ease feelings of loneliness. In fact, research published in Current Gerontology and Geriatrics Research found that animal-assisted interactions can significantly improve mood, increase social engagement, and foster a greater sense of well-being among older adults in community living settings. Visits from animals like Bella often spark conversation, laughter, and fond reminiscence — enriching everyday life in ways both simple and enduring.
A Treasured Part of the Community
Over the years, Bella has become an essential thread woven into the fabric of daily life at Barclay Friends. The soft click-clack of her paws signals her arrival, often followed by cheerful greetings: “Aw, Bella’s here!” Her visits offer more than momentary joy — they create opportunities for connection, spark memories, and offer comfort in quiet, unspoken ways.
These simple, consistent moments of companionship remind everyone that meaningful connections can be found in many forms. Whether through a gentle paw, a shared smile, or a peaceful moment sitting side by side, the bonds nurtured by Bella’s visits enrich daily life for people of every age.